Paying a deposit changes the mood of a solar purchase. Before that point, you are comparing options. After that point, you may be trying to unwind a contract if the detail changes or the pressure felt wrong.
The answer is not "never pay a deposit". Some installers use deposits for legitimate planning and equipment reasons. The answer is: do not pay one until the quote and contract are clear enough to protect you.
The pre-deposit checklist
| Before paying | What you need in writing | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Final scope | Panels, inverter, battery, scaffolding, electrical work | Prevents "that was extra" disputes. |
| Survey changes | What can change the price after survey | You need to know your exit route if the quote changes. |
| Cancellation | Cooling-off period and process | Different sales routes can affect rights and obligations. |
| Deposit protection | Insurance or other protection evidence | Important if the installer stops trading. |
| Payment schedule | What is due, when and why | Large upfront payment increases risk. |
| Paperwork | MCS, DNO and handover route | You need proof after installation, not just promises. |
What deposit size should make you pause?
The RECC Consumer Code says if a code member requires a deposit when the contract is signed, it should be a reasonable percentage of the estimated overall costs, for example 15%, and should not exceed 25% under any circumstances. It also says deposits and further advance payments must be insured in case the member becomes insolvent or ceases trading before completion.
That does not mean every non-RECC contract follows the same code wording, but it gives a useful buyer benchmark. If an installer wants a very large upfront payment, ask why and ask how it is protected.
Cancellation and refund wording
CMA guidance on cancelling goods or services says businesses cannot automatically keep deposits or advance payments just because a contract says so. It says cancellation charges need to be reasonable and generally linked to actual losses from the cancellation. It also says non-refundable deposits should only be a small percentage of the total price.
For home improvement work, Citizens Advice says cancellation rights can depend on where and how the contract was made, whether work has started and whether items are standard or made to measure. That is why you should not rely on a salesperson's verbal summary. Read the cancellation wording before paying.
Pressure signs before deposit
- The price is said to expire today before the quote is clear.
- The installer discourages written questions.
- The survey has not happened, but you are asked to commit fully.
- The deposit is described as non-refundable without explaining why.
- You are asked to pay cash or a bank transfer to a name that does not match the company.
- The quote does not identify MCS, DNO, warranty or aftercare responsibilities.
A calmer way to respond
A good installer may need time to answer. That is fine. What matters is whether the answers become clearer or the pressure increases.
Before you pay
Save the quote, contract, cancellation notice, deposit receipt, company details and any emails confirming what has been promised. If you later need to challenge something, written evidence matters.
Sources
- RECC: Renewable Energy Consumer Code
- GOV.UK/CMA: Cancelling goods or services
- GOV.UK/CMA: Writing a fair contract for customers
- Citizens Advice: Before you get building work done
Disclaimer
This article is general information only and is not legal advice. Consumer rights can depend on the facts, contract, sales route and timing. If you are in a dispute or unsure about your rights, consider contacting Citizens Advice or taking independent legal advice.